Travel guide · Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka: what to see and when to go
Sri Lanka packs ancient cities, tea country, wildlife safaris and tropical beaches into one island. Its train rides through the hills, fiery curries and warm hospitality make it one of Asia's most rewarding trips.
What to see and do in Sri Lanka
Sigiriya
A royal fortress on top of a rock nearly 200 m high, with ancient frescoes.
Kandy
The Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Peradeniya botanical gardens.
Ella and the hill country
Tea plantations, waterfalls and the famous scenic train ride.
Yala and Udawalawe
Leopards and herds of elephants on safari.
Galle and the south coast
A Dutch colonial fort town, and beaches like Mirissa, with whale watching.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Feb – Mar.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 11 hr, 45 min | ≈ €570 · See flights |
| New York | 18 hr, 30 min | ≈ €730 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 19 hr, 45 min | ≈ €760 · See flights |
| Dubai | 4 hr, 45 min | ≈ €290 · See flights |
| Singapore | 4 hr | ≈ €240 · See flights |
| Sydney | 11 hr, 45 min | ≈ €570 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €740 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Sri Lanka
- Currency
- Sri Lankan Rupee
- Good for
- nature · culture · sea · food · mountains
- How long to stay
- 8–12 days
- Where to stay
- Combine the Cultural Triangle, the hill country and the south coast.Find a place to stay in Sri Lanka
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Sri Lanka, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €570 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Sri Lanka (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- CarPick it up at the airport (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
Links open a sample search (Fri, Feb 5 – Sat, Feb 13, 2 people): change it on each site. If you book through these links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep improving diceando. Legal notice
Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Sri Lanka and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Feb – Mar. Average highs range from 29° in January to 34° in April.
How many days do you need in Sri Lanka?
8 to 12 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Sri Lanka cost?
Accommodation runs at around €60 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €740 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 11 hr, 45 min.
Where should you stay in Sri Lanka?
Combine the Cultural Triangle, the hill country and the south coast.
